Forties Glamour

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The glamorous 40s are back this season with lashings of fur, ladylike pencil skirts and waist-nipping jackets all making an appearance. Present in numerous shows from the heavily embellished tea dress at Miu Miu to the sharp tailoring and pill box hats of Marc Jacobs.

Irene Dunne

Channel screen siren Irene Dunne in all her 40s glory with a skirt suit and fur accessories. Bring the look up to date by swapping the vintage hat for a fedora, or instead of a feminine skirt go for wide leg masculine trouser like another of our 40s heroines Marlene Dietrich.

PHOTO BY: Courtesy Everett Collection / Rex Features

LK Bennet Black Jude Jacket

John Lewis

A structured jacket with a nipped in waist is essential to nail the 40s trend. Pair with silk blouse and plenty of fur accessories for ultimate ladylike glamour.

LK Bennett Black Jude Pencil Skirt

John Lewis

On the knee is the length of choice when it comes to 40s glamour, but be sure to team one with heels to really lengthen the leg.

Faux Fur Stole

Liberty

Liberty London Collection’s faux fur stole is 40s glamour at its best. Dress up an evening coat or wear with a chunky knit cardigan for a casual look with a hint of old school Hollywood.

Green Fedora Hat

Monsoon

The pillbox hats seen on the runway of Marc Jacobs’ AW11 show finished off his 40s interpretation perfectly, however they may not translate into real life just as well. Trade in the vintage headwear for a masculine and much more up to date fedora in a luxurious jewel tone.

Faux Fur Trimmed Evening Coat

Topshop

You’ll look like a modern day Vivian Leigh in this gorgeous evening coat. Throw on over a cocktail dress with statement shoes, leather gloves and 40s inspired jewels.

Miu Miu Embellished Crepe Dress

Net-a-porter.com

Miu Miu’s AW11 collection gave more than a nod to the fabulous 40s with the help of their exquisitely embellished cocktail dresses. Save this showstopper for a New Year’s Eve party or special event and pair with killer heels and a simple clutch.

French Connection Hair Slides

ASOS.com

Finish off 40s soft curls with these vintage inspired hair slides.

White Blouse

Zara

Teamed with wide leg trousers or a pencil skirt this blouse will add ladylike charm to you look.

Raoul Buckle Belt

Net-a-porter.com

Add a contrasting belt like this Raoul leather one to a skirt suit or high waisted trousers to show off that wasp waist.

Marc by Marc Jacobs Suede Shoes

Matches

These gorgeous Marc by Marc Jacobs heels hone 40s glamour with their black suede court shape, combined with a modern contrasting gold heel.